The Importance of Driver Education

Each year about 1.35 million people worldwide die due to car accidents, with an even larger amount becoming seriously injured. Driver education is important because it gives people the information they need to be prepared to drive on the road. It prepares them for multiple situations in which they need to be responsible and attentive when driving in order to ensure the safety of themselves, other drivers, and pedestrians.

One thing that can reduce the number of driving fatalities is educating people more about being a defensive driver, rather than being on the offense when driving. An offensive driver is self-focused and prioritizes getting to their destination, rather than on driving safely. An example of a driver driving offensively may include going over the speed limit, cutting off other vehicles, and not waiting for pedestrians to cross the street before zooming ahead. A defensive driver on the other hand, is a person who drives more cautiously and is more in tune with their surroundings. 

I have never been in a car accident before although I have had close calls with being hit by a vehicle when crossing the street. I find that some drivers do not pay attention to pedestrians when crossing the street in their hurry to get to their destinations. I have also been in vehicles with friends and family where they go over the speed limit frequently because of their impatience. One thing that I also notice when driving with other teenagers is that they are often distracted by their cell phones. They may get a text message or phone call and they often pick it up and make some excuse as to why it cannot wait until they get to their destination. They do not even have the patience to park first and then answer it if they deem it important enough. I also think indirect peer pressure may be a factor that causes some teens to take risks when driving. I have seen many teenagers attempt to race each other by speeding due to other friends in the car cheering them on. This fuels the capacity for teens to take dangerous chances and drive carelessly. The freedom of driving, especially for teenagers who are just getting their license, may make them more likely to drive recklessly. This could be due to the thrill of driving and the feeling of freedom it gives. I personally find driving exciting and liberating, although I also feel a strong sense of caution about it because I know that not everyone may be paying attention or have the same level of caution I demonstrate when I drive. 

To ensure effective driver education, I believe taking a driver’s ed course is vital to reduce the chances of accidents. Driver’s ed offers insights into road rules, handling diverse road conditions, and managing emergencies under a licensed instructor’s guidance. It also enhances driving confidence, crucial for quicker and more effective reactions while driving.

A driver’s education course can also be beneficial for newly arrived immigrants in Canada, particularly for adult immigrants who must adjust to driving in a foreign country with distinct road layouts and regulations. Navigating unfamiliar routes to reach their destinations may prove more of a challenge for them. As someone who immigrated from Nigeria to Canada during my childhood, I have grown accustomed to the local roads. However, I have witnessed family members who attempted the driver’s license test without prior enrollment in a driver’s education course under the guidance of a certified instructor. Consequently, they ended up either failing the test or only barely passed due to inadequate familiarization with Canadian driving rules and regulations. Such circumstances could threaten their own safety, that of their families, and that of other drivers and pedestrians who utilize the roads.

Another approach to maintaining safer roads could be mandating a secondary driver’s test for teenagers a year after their initial one to prevent any acquired bad habits. In Canada and other countries with harsh winter conditions, winter tires could also improve safety on ice-covered roads by providing a better grip on the road compared to all-season tires. Although maintenance expenses may deter some, ensuring all car components are in top condition is essential for safe driving. Regular maintenance guarantees driving safety by ensuring all car elements function optimally.

Driver’s education equips individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the roads safely and responsibly. By becoming more informed about the rules of the road, defensive driving techniques, and proper road etiquette, as well as keeping our vehicles in good condition, we can reduce the number of driving fatalities.